Tender wedding vows for a spouse at a backyard ceremony

I still remember the morning we planted that little lemon tree in the corner of your parents' yard, both of us covered in dirt, laughing about whether we'd actually remember to water it. Today we're standing in this space we've made our own, and I can see its branches from here. That's what I want our marriage to be—something we tend together, something that grows because we show up for it, season after season.

I promise to be gentle with your heart, especially on the days when the world hasn't been. I'll make you tea without asking. I'll listen to the story you need to tell, even if you've told it before. I'll hold space for your worry and your joy in equal measure.

I promise to choose you every morning, in all the small ways that matter. I'll squeeze the toothpaste from the bottom. I'll let you have the last bite. I'll say yes to your spontaneous ideas, even when they terrify me a little, because you've taught me that the best things live just outside my comfort zone.

You've made me braver and softer at the same time. Today, in front of everyone who loves us, I promise to keep building this life with you—one ordinary, beautiful day at a time.

I think about that lemon tree we planted more often than you know. How we didn't really know what we were doing, but we did it anyway, together. It's taller than both of us now. That's what you've taught me—that we don't have to have all the answers, we just have to be willing to try, to get our hands dirty, to believe in what we're planting.

I promise to meet you with softness, especially when life makes us both feel hard and tired. I'll rub your shoulders without being asked. I'll defend your need to rest. I'll celebrate your wins like they're my own, because in all the ways that matter, they are.

I promise to show up fully, in all the unglamorous moments. I'll take out the compost. I'll remember which mug is your favorite. I'll drive through the night if you need me, because you've driven through plenty of nights for me, literally and otherwise.

You've shown me what it means to be truly seen. Today, surrounded by the people who've cheered us on, I promise to keep choosing this—choosing us—with everything I have.